M/F Postdoctoral Researcher as part of a collaborative research contract with GRDF

Job Description

Missions

The successful postdoctoral researcher will investigate the physicochemical mechanisms leading to the formation of resin deposits observed at certain biomethane injection stations, with the aim of identifying preventive and remediation solutions.

Activity

Conduct a scientific and technical literature review on the polymerization and oxidation processes potentially involved in resin formation.
Characterize the chemical composition of resin samples collected from the field.
Identify the chemical species that act as resin precursors.
Propose one or more plausible reaction mechanisms.
Assess the factors that promote or inhibit resin formation.
Develop operational recommendations and remediation strategies for the industrial partner.
Identifier les espèces chimiques précurseurs de la résine.
Proposer un ou plusieurs mécanismes réactionnels plausibles.
Évaluer les facteurs favorisant ou inhibant la formation de résine.
Formuler des recommandations opérationnelles et des pistes de remédiation pour le partenaire industriel.

Your Profil

Skills

Knowledge:

Strong expertise in organic chemistry, including synthesis, handling of air- and moisture-sensitive compounds, and comprehensive characterization of small organic molecules (NMR, IR, UV-Vis, etc.).
Solid expertise in polymer chemistry, including synthesis and characterization, particularly using DSC, TGA, kinetic studies, and related analytical techniques.
Proven expertise in the development (proposal and validation) of complex reaction mechanisms.
Demonstrated scientific expertise (e.g., through participation in public–private collaborative research projects) enabling the presentation of research activities to industrial and academic partners.

Operational Skills:

Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team.
Ability to report regularly on research activities and progress.
Ability to manage and execute research projects.
Proficiency in using specialized scientific software as well as standard office software.
Excellent command of English, with the ability to present research findings in French to audiences with expertise different from that of the candidate.

Interpersonal Skills:

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, particularly in interactions with industrial partners.
Adaptability, autonomy, and a proactive approach.

Required Qualifications – Education and Professional Experience:

PhD in Organic Chemistry (required).
Mandatory postdoctoral training in macromolecular chemistry (organic polymers), preferably conducted within the framework of public–private collaborative research partnerships.

Your Work Environment

The Catalysis, Polymerization, Processes and Materials Laboratory (CP2M) is located within CPE Lyon, an engineering school situated on the La Doua campus in Villeurbanne, France. The laboratory operates under the joint supervision of the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), CPE Lyon, and Claude Bernard University Lyon 1, all of which are members of the University of Lyon.

CP2M was established on January 1, 2021, through the merger of the Chemistry, Catalysis, Polymers and Processes Laboratory (C2P2, UMR 5265) and the Catalytic Process Engineering Laboratory (LGPC, UMR 5285). This new research unit was created to bring together the complementary expertise of the two former laboratories in the development and implementation of advanced organometallic complexes and functional materials for a wide range of applications, particularly in homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis, advanced polymer chemistry and polymerization processes, chemical reaction engineering, reactor design and process automation, as well as innovative approaches to the study of chemistry.
Main Research Areas

CP2M's research activities span the entire value chain, from molecules to processes, and from product formulation to end-use properties. Its main research themes include:

Multiscale catalytic systems;
Polymers and polymerization processes;
Reactivity in catalysis;
Complex colloids;
Chemical reaction engineering;
Materials engineering and molecular engineering;
Process intensification;
Biomass recycling and valorization within the framework of the circular economy.

Constraints and risks

The position is primarily based in a chemistry laboratory.

Work involves the handling of chemical substances in accordance with established safety procedures and following appropriate training. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE)—including a lab coat, safety glasses, gloves, and other required protective gear—is mandatory.

The role requires the operation of specialized scientific equipment, such as chemical reactors, analytical instruments, and, where required by the project, pressurized or vacuum systems.

Strict compliance with laboratory health and safety regulations, as well as chemical waste management procedures, is essential.

Occasional travel within France or internationally may be required to attend project meetings, scientific conferences, or visits to partner institutions and industrial collaborators.

The position may also involve the occasional handling of hazardous and strongly odorous substances (including toxic, flammable, or CMR substances, depending on the experimental protocols), in facilities that comply with applicable regulations and under stringent safety procedures.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

Starting from €3,071 gross per month, depending on experience.

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

The research professions